Hi Jeff,

Not to rain on your parade, but I'm concerned about you as a newbie (your word, not mine) on a 20' with a 5 yr old. Beach cats are so light that they power up quickly in a breeze, and a Hobie 20 will have serious acceleration and speed. If you go back and read your previous post, you'll note that everyone recommended a smaller boat. That advice is born out of experience; the bigger the sail, the wilder things can get. I know you have a lot of experience sailing a larger boat, but beach cats are a whole different ballgame, especially when the wind picks up.

Hey, I'm not trying to be contrary. Perhaps you feel well equipped for the challenge, or even insulted that anyone would recommend caution. And maybe you'll be the guy who catches on right away and never makes a mistake. My concern, though, is that you'll be like most of us--forgetting to uncleat that line or finding ourselves in the wrong place when the wind shifts, etc. Things happen so quickly on these cats, and we've all had close calls (funny afterwards!) when we lose concentration. 20' is a lot of boat to start with, especially with young crew.

OK, I've said my piece. I had already done so in response to your previous post, but when I saw what you're leaning towards, I felt I ought to speak up again. I understand we all get to make our choices, but I'll finish with a bit of "Popeye wisdom" that I've often quoted to my teenagers: "We makes our choices, and we lives with our consequences." I just don't want you to endure any consequences that you'll later regret.

I really do hope it works out well for you, whatever you choose. Happy sailing, and might you have much fun and stay safe on the water.

Kevin